Spearhead - GLO

THINK GLOBAL ACT LOCAL

Can we make a difference IN THE DR CONGO?

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SPRING 2017GLO MINISTRIES AUSTR ALIA

2 Editorial Thinking globally, acting locally

3 GLOcalization

How GLO thinks global, and acts local

6 Can we Make a Difference?Child sponsorship in DR Congo

The phrase “Think global, act local” was first used in the context of environmental challenges. This saying is often used to encourage people to start addressing global environmental issues through achievable local actions, such as reducing their energy usage. Andrew Cowell, GLO Co-Director

12 Training the TrainerBrother Choi’s Story

14 Thank You PolioAnd thank you Dr Nicholls

14

17 Building a Better FutureDevelopment work in Central Asia

18 Our Lives are not Our Own Mark and Milly’s Story

20 The Living FieldsSambath’s Story

20

CONTENTS

In this edition of Spearhead “Think global, act local” takes on a much wider meaning. Here it refers to any act done locally that impacts others globally. For an example, refer to the article on “Child Sponsorship in D.R. Congo” found on pages 6-8.

Also in this edition, “Think global, act local” takes on a deeper meaning. A quick glance at the contents below reveals that this Spearhead is packed with stories of real life people. As you read about these

people, why not pause for a moment, and pray for them? Intercessory prayer, like child sponsorship, is an example of a personal action that can have global ramifications.

So read on, and discover many more ways that God is working through people who “Think global, act local.”

By Andrew Cowell

069 Discipling the Nations

CrossTrain 2017 student update

22 The Timothy ProjectGLO’s scholarship program

23 Comings & GLOings

2324 Contact Details

2 SPEARHEAD SPRING 2017

THINK GLOBAL, ACT LOCAL

Now you may be wondering to yourself, what does this have to do with GLO Australia? Well, the Maharaja Burger is a fine example of glocalisation; that is, adapting a global product to better suit local tastes and preferences. When it comes to GLO Australia, however, glocalisation means providing local support and training for global ministry.

LOCAL SUPPORT INITIATIVES CONSIST OF:

• promoting prayer through distributing Prayer News, hosting monthly Prayer Suppers, plus an annual Day of Prayer.

• updating partners through the GLO webpage, publishing and distributing the Spearhead magazine, and posting frequent updates on social media.

• distributing gifts to workers and projects, plus acknowledging gifts and thanking supporters.

• bringing workers and partners together by hosting events, such as the GLO Expo Day, and the GLO Family & Friends Conference.

• conducting annual encouragement visits and survey trips to mission fields.

• partnering with local churches by assisting with ministry projects, such as the And God Said conferences, Sunday Night Lights Young Adults ministry, and evangelistic outreaches such as the eProject.

• running Encounter short term mission trips, in partnership with AMT, to international and local destinations.

LOCAL TRAINING INCLUDES:

• CrossTalk - ESL Training that “develops English proficiency” (6-12 months).

• CrossConnect - Discipleship & Ministry Training in “Practical Christianity” (9 months).

• CrossWork - Ministry Internships that equip you for a life of service (1-2 years).

• CrossTrain - Missions Training that makes you fit and ready for “cross cultural missionary service” (6 months).

• CrossCountry - Intensive “on-the-job ministry training” held for 1 week each year.

As you can see, we believe that local actions can have global ramifications. To find out more about the global impact of these local ministries please refer to the map on the next page.

If you have the opportunity to visit India, I recommend you try the Maharaja Burger, the local equivalent of a Big Mac. For religious reasons McDonalds has replaced the two beef patties with two Chicken patties. In addition to that, a spicy habanero sauce takes the place of the secret Big Mac sauce, making the burger far more appealing to the local market.

Friends at the GLO Expo 2016

Sunday Night Lights

SPEARHEAD SPRING 2017 3

GLOcalisationHow GLO Ministries “Thinks Global, Acts Local”

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT D.R. CONGO

Assisting Noela Elvery & Julie Loudon with the promotion of Child Sponsorship Programs plus other Community Development projects.

MASS EVANGELISM & FOLLOW UP

INDIA

Partnering with National Workers who are involved in gospel literature distribution, mass evangelism and follow up, camping ministry, discipleship plus mobilising churches for training and ministry.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CLOSED COUNTRIES

Partnering with National Workers who are conducting Student Sponsorship Programs and various other educational projects.

EVANGELISM & CHURCH PLANTING

ROMANIA

Partnering with National Workers who are dedicated to reaching and planting churches amongst gypsies. Assisting National Workers who use the internet for evangelism and follow up, plus serve local churches through providing training and conducting children’s programs.


GLOcalisation How GLO Ministries “Thinks Global, Acts Local”


PHILIPPINES

Partnering with Church Planters who are involved in typhoon relief, evangelism, discipleship, church planting, plus leader-ship development.


MONGOLIA

Partnering with National Workers who are using sports ministry, camping, and other means to evangelise and plant churches.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MYANMAR

Partnering with National Workers who are sharing the gospel through providing hostel accommodation and access to quality education for underprivileged children.


INDONESIA

Partnering with Church Planters who are involved in evangelism, discipleship, church planting, plus camping, translation work and leadership development.


NEPAL

Partnering with National Workers who are involved in evangelism, discipleship, church planting, translation ministries, and elder preparation programs.


COMMUNAUTE EMMANUEL 39 (CE39), with whom we partner, is

the registered name for Christian Brethren churches in North East

Democratic Republic of Congo. Our first recording trip to NE DRC

(then Zaire) was in 1986 when a recording base with national

leadership was established at Nyankunde. Recordings were not only

produced for evangelism but also for teaching believers, many of

whom were illiterate and without regular Bible teaching. Lack of

security and general instability was evident throughout the area

even at that time, with tribal fighting and rebel activity.

POVERTY AND UNREST

From the outset, many ministries and projects were undertaken by Emmanuel Community Churches in the Eastern and Kivu Provinces of Democratic Republic of Congo, as a means of reaching people with the Word of God. However, with constant wars, unrest and atrocities, many chapels, properties, schools, hospitals and homes have been destroyed. Thousands have been killed, and many others displaced, traumatised and often left with severe injuries and insuf-ficient aid from humanitarian organisations.

CHILD SPONSORSHIP IN DR CONGO

We cannot hide from the problem of poverty – it is everywhere; but we can make a difference. The words of our Lord Jesus in Luke 12:48 are challenging … ”From the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.” In Australia, we have been given much.

Yes We CanC A N W E M A K E A D I F F E R E N C E ?


EDUCATION OF LOCAL CHILDREN

Our concern, in particular, was for the traumatised children in the North East DR of Congo. Many children were left orphaned or with one parent, personally experiencing tragedies that no child should ever encounter. The thousand or so who escaped from Nyankunde settled in the Manzali/Oicha area in the Kivu Province and , ‘Yes’, the purchase of land with finance from Australian Christians has made a difference.

On that block of land, 900 children now attend Manzali School; we hear it is the most popular school in the region! From a small begin-ning there are now two primary schools and one high school, along with a medical block with a separate maternity section. The school children and pygmy squatters benefit from these medical facilities.

Approximately 220 children (orphaned or with one parent) are sponsored by Australians. Sponsorship of $120 annually provides school uniforms, school fees, personal needs and help for the family caring for them. Non- sponsored students are able to pay a small amount to attend school, and this payment covers teachers’ wages. We continue to pray that the second primary school and high school will receive registration from the government. This would mean that the teachers will receive a small wage. For some reason, this is a very long, involved and expensive process which hopefully will take place after the projected elections in

November. However, God is in control and we are praying that it will eventually become a reality.

EXTRACTS FROM CHILDREN’S LETTERS TO SPONSORS

Children write regularly to their sponsors and vice versa. Here are some extracts from recent letters:

“If it was not for your support I could not study …. Thank you … I need your prayer so much for me and for peace in our country.”

“I will not forget you till I go in my tomb. I will be remembering all you have done. I have nothing to give you. I know our God is faithful and he is going to bless you in his time.”

“My holiday from school was not well, it was destroyed by the insecurity which has taken residence in our territory. Pray for peace in our country.”

“To tell the truth, you are nice parents. No-one in Africa as a black one can do what you are doing. I am called to worship your God.”

“Thank you for your prayer. We continue in insecurity. We are moving every time from our house to another place to pass our night. We do not know when we can stop that. We need your prayer.”

Happy children from the conflict-stricken DR Congo



“I love Sunday school and my school. The rebels activities continue to disturb us but God knows all things.”

“Very nice to have your letter which makes me happy and gives me an ending laugh. I promise I will continue to be a good student.”

PRAYING AND GIVING

YES, our involvement from Australia in prayer and giving can make a difference. Currently, nine students who passed their government exams have continued studying at different univer-sities with their sponsor’s support. They are studying for various degrees including Building, Agriculture, Environment, Medical Doctor, Paediatrics, Nurse and Teacher. One student is doing a short course on computer skills.

Our goal (before retirement!) and the desire of the Congolese School Committee is to see the work self-sustaining, with possibly one more building on site for school leavers to gain practical skills in sewing, computers, woodwork etc. Acira and Berocan Thuambe, our fellow

workers, coordinate this project; we thank God for them and ask that you pray for them. As “workers together with the Lord Jesus,” lives are being changed and, YES, together we can help make a difference!

by Noela Elvery & Julie Loudon

Funding for the above ministry is through AMT, PO Box 565, Mt Gravatt Qld 4122 referenced for J&N Manzali/Audio Project or contact:

Noela: [email protected]: [email protected] or Phone: 02 95464111

DR Congo Children

CrossTrain is an intensive six-month missions training course deliv-ered by the GLO College of Ministries. From February through to July, a team of experienced missionaries had the privilege of delivering the CrossTrain program to five trainees from three different countries (personal reflections of the CrossTrain trainees are presented over the page). The aim of the program was to assist the trainees to get fit and ready for cross cultural missionary service throughout South East Asia, including closed access countries. This involved helping them to develop a missional lifestyle where disciple making and church planting become a natural way of life.

We value your ongoing prayers for the trainees. Two are undertaking further training with GLO Australia prior to serving with their home churches, two are returning home to survey their prospective field of service, and one is returning to the mission field together with his wife. Please pray that the Lord will use them to disciple the nations to disciple the nations, and that their missional lifestyle will become contagious on their respective mission fields.

By Andrew Cowell

When my family left the mission field, and returned home to Australia, I couldn’t help but wonder if my time of discipling the nations had come to an end. I am pleased to report, however, that through GLO Ministries, and in particular the CrossTrain Program, God has continued to open the door for me to make disciples of the nations.

CrossTrain class of 2017 with Andrew Cowell


DISCIPLING THE NATIONS to disciple the nations

AMOS CHEW

Attending the CrossTrain course this year has been such a blessing to me. I would like to share with you how God’s boundless grace has been revealed to me through the course.

One of the most precious lessons I learnt was something that Andrew Cowell kept emphasising early in the course: that we were here as missionaries and not as students. I came to under-stand that I am being SENT by God to be a WITNESS, which is a deep truth.

While here, I have had the privilege of being involved in various ministries, and God has used these ministries to teach and transform me into what He wants me to be.

Additionally, I have been able to connect with the community here in Riverstone, and this has been such a thrill for me! I joined the CrossFit community and played rugby for a local team in Rouse Hill. This has allowed me to practice many lessons learnt from the course.

I have grown so much in my faith during these 6 months. To God be the glory!

MARK TSENG

CrossTrain has opened my mind about missions and helped me to understand better the Great Commission of Christ. Through the study of the Bible, preaching, church planting, evangelism, cross cultural ministry, etc. I have developed skills which apply to all areas of my life.

The course has also helped me with my personal devotions and taught me how to seek specific direction for my future. I remember clearly the words of one of our lecturers: “You have been sent by Jesus into every interaction with every person in every circumstance in everyday life.”

I don’t know what the future holds but God guides me daily.

JOSEPH CHOI

The most memorable things I learnt in CrossTrain are the Biblical subjects, as well as Discipleship and Service attitudes.

After working as a missionary in Nepal for the past 16 years, I am having a sabbati-cal year and studying at GLO. It has been a very joyful time; God has blessed me.

I have had many mission experiences in the past. Now I have been able to sort out my experiences through this systematic, theoretical and practical mission training program.

I am studying with young friends who are preparing to leave for mission and I am envious of them; they need not suffer the hardship that I experienced through the lack of such a valuable training course.

Mark & Milly Tseng

Amos Chew

Hannah & Joseph Choi


DISCIPLING THE NATIONS to disciple the nations

In the past few weeks, we learned about vehicle maintenance and the basics of electricity. Maybe when my friends go to the mission field, they will realise how important this training is.

Learning is always a challenging and inspiring experience for me.

YEOMKWANG KIM

We have learnt many big and small lessons while doing the CrossTrain mission course.

Firstly, the course taught us important biblical principles. I learnt to think deeply about spiritual matters by listening to the different lecturers’ perspectives.

Secondly, we were able to prepare for our future mission field by learning to live in Australia. Together with my wife Chanmi and two children, we had to adapt to a different culture, language, and environment. However, this is part of the necessary training.

Lastly, we learnt about the importance of relationships from the warm-hearted people around us. The GLO staff, Wareemba church members, lecturers and other students were always there to share the challenges we faced; these included our children’s schooling, visa and health issues. I thank God for bringing these people into our lives and allowing us to fellowship with them.

CHANMI

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20).

As a person training to be a future missionary, the Great Commission spoke deeply to me. The course further challenged me to get to know how to make disciples and how to teach the Word of God in a biblical way. Also, the importance of learning culture and language was helpful.

Even though it’s hard to deal with the responsibilities that come with being a missionary, God’s promise in the Great Commission of always being with us is a great encouragement to me. I thank God for working within me to fulfill His will through CrossTrain.

CrossTrain class with lecturer, Andrew Cowell.

Yeomkwang and Chanmi Kim with Jiho and Jinhun

Norm Turtle instructs CrossTrain students in mission practicalities


TRAINING THE TRAINERBrother Choi’s Story

THE CALL TO MISSIONS

Joseph resigned from his desirable position, turned his back on a life of relative comfort and, together with his family, set off for Kathmandu, Nepal. He remarks that he was quite a beginner when he became a missionary. Being among the first generation of South Korean missionaries, it was typical for him to receive relatively little formal, structured training in mission, thus being largely left to “work it out” through experience.

NEPAL YEARS

Despite their humble beginnings, God has used Joseph and Hannah

in mighty ways in Nepal. Their experiences in this mountainous,

largely Hindu nation have been dramatic and varied; ranging from

having to stay indoors for several days during a military assault on

Kathmandu, to living through the chaotic aftermath of the disas-

trous 2015 earthquake.

Growing up in his native South Korea, Joseph (Geunmin) Choi never dreamed that he would one day be a missionary to Nepal. By the age of 37, he was happily married to Hannah (Sangsuk) Lee, had a son, Ji Hwan, and had forged out a successful career as a manager in CJ Group, a subsidiary of Samsung. Nonetheless, he began to feel the call of the Lord to serve overseas. Joseph and Hannah with their son, Ji Hwan

Children at a rural school camp12 SPEARHEAD SPRING 2017

TRAINING THE TRAINER

As Nepal does not officially issue visas for missionaries, Joseph and Hannah were required to set up a tent-making ministry as a springboard for further ministry. They accomplished this by acquiring a family hotel business in Machhegaun, a suburb on the outskirts of Kathmandu. They then looked for ways to make contacts with the local community, composed largely of the Newar people. The Lord provided a unique opportunity through a local school, the New Horizon Academy, of which Joseph took manage-ment. Through this school, which became known for its high standard of education, Joseph and Hannah gained standing in the local community. This provided not only opportunities to preach the gospel, but also led to a church plant nearby. Today, Machhegaun Assembly has over 120 believers, and two further church plants have arisen.

Joseph has always had a strong passion for training others, espe-cially young people. Resisting the typical missionary tendency to maintain a tight hold on leadership, he made it a priority to identify, raise up and empower local elders. He also started an initiative known as the Timothy School – a weekly training session for the elders of the assemblies around Kathmandu. Over the years, Joseph has also been instrumental in recommending students for training at GLO, including Mari and Yuta, Kamal and Bimala and, more recently, Jitendra and Bindu.

After 15 years on the mission field, Joseph and Hannah began thinking about their future, and decided that taking a Sabbatical year was in order. They were tired, having barely taken a break during their years of service. Hannah’s health was also suffering due to a lung condition, which had been aggravated by the dust in the air following the 2015 earthquake. In their keenness to continue studying the things of the Lord, they determined that their Sabbatical year, though a time of refreshment, should also include some level of study.

GLO AUSTRALIA

Recognising both Joseph’s passion for training and his mission experience, GLO offered him a proposal. It was suggested that he undertake half a year of study to improve his English in the CrossTalk ESL program, followed by 6 months in the mission-oriented CrossTrain program. GLO felt that undertaking CrossTrain, though in many regards covering material familiar to an experienced mission-ary, would offer Joseph ideas that may one day form a foundation for his own training of future missionaries.

Joseph and Hannah have now completed their sabbatical year in Australia. They look back with fondness on their time here, having particularly enjoyed Australia’s outdoors. Joseph remarks that his time undertaking the CrossTrain course has been very useful, having witnessed firsthand an example of structured training for cross-cul-tural mission. He was also able to attend GLO’s National Committee meetings, and this has challenged him to adopt a similar format for the leadership team of the New Horizon Academy back in Nepal.

FUTURE PLANS

Their immediate plans are to return to South Korea for a few weeks to catch up with their son, and then to head back to Nepal. They feel this will be their final leg in Nepal, and are praying about how the Lord may use them once they retire from the mission field. No doubt the possibility of training future South Korean missionaries will remain at the forefront of Joseph’s mind. Please pray for the Lord’s continued guidance for Joseph and Hannah into the future. We look forward with anticipation to what the Lord will continue to do in and through them.

By Oskars Stubis

Joseph gives a graduate an award


Thank You Polio

The Russian author and dissident, Alexander Solzhenitsyn, spent years penned up in a Siberian Gulag. He speaks powerfully of the unique education that pain brings. Looking back, he describes his gratitude for those awful years in that place: “I nourished my soul there, and I say without hesitation, ‘Bless you, prison, for having been in my life.’”

As I write these words I say, “Thank you, Dr and Mrs Nicholls, for having been in my life.”

AND THANK YOU DR AND MRS NICHOLLS

Ling Kuang Polio children’s home


POLIO IS NOT PLEASANT

Hello, I’m Dennis Chang.

I was just one year old when I contracted polio. Polio was wide-spread in those days. Dr Don Nicholls operated on my diseased hip when I was one year old, but my earliest memory of him was when I was five. We were celebrating Christmas at the newly established Ling Kwang Polio Clinic in Taiwan and Dr Don, as he became known, gave me gifts to mark the season. It was as though I had only just woken up to the world.

Dr Don and his wife Margot became very important in my life, not only for the healing hands of Dr Don, but also for the message they both brought. This message was conveyed initially through the treatment I received at the Clinic. It had been set up for abandoned polio victims, and I was in the first intake. I was there for three years and, during that time, I learned what was needed to compete in a rough-and-tumble world.

I still have strong memories of the Clinic. The lines of people waiting for treatment were long, but people didn’t mind because of the love shown by Dr Don as he cared for them. You see, Dr Don was concerned for the whole person, both body and soul. He did this as a skilled missionary doctor. I remember that there was always a Bible on the desk near his right hand while he attended a patient on his left. He always spoke kindly and gently. That attracted people to Christ, the one he served with quiet passion.

AN ATHEISTIC ANCESTOR WORSHIPPER?

Through the influence and witness of the Nicholls, I became a Christian when I was 15 years old; the doctor and his family men-tored me. This was not welcomed by my father who was an atheist. Funny when you think of it: Dad was not only an atheist, he was also an ancestor worshipper! I was the only one in the family who had left the worship of ancestors. This angered Dad, but the respect he had for the doctor saved me from some awkward spots. This respect sometimes got me out of hot water. The Ling Kwang Clinic ran a youth fellowship on Friday nights, and sometimes it ran on a bit late. This angered my Dad. So to appease his wrath, I sometimes would ask Dr Nicholls if he would take me home. He would do this,

Dr Don & Margot Nicholls

Friends from the polio home


not knowing that he was being “used” by me. I knew that when Dad saw Dr Nicholls he would be so happy to see him, he would forget about my being late. And that’s what happened.

Anyway, it was because I was taught and cared for so lovingly by Dr Don and his wife that I began to make my way in the world. It was at the Clinic that I was educated and learned to walk and play. It was there that I even learned to climb stairs. In fact, people were amazed that I was able to climb the Great Wall of China using my two crutches. (That was a bit scary; the Wall had no railings.) I felt at home in the Clinic because no one there would ridicule me because of my gait and crutches.

My cousin, a few years older than me, also contracted polio. Her father, a university professor, was embarrassed by his daughter’s affliction and kept her confined to the house. (Many Chinese parents in this situation were also shamed by their child’s affliction.) Even though her polio wasn’t as bad as mine, she never enjoyed good schooling and, even now, after her Dad has passed away, she still lives with her siblings and relies on them. This, to me, shows the difference I was privileged to receive at the hands of the Nicholls.

In time, I went on to the best middle and high schools and received a Bachelor of Science in electronic engineering and eventually, when in the USA, a Master’s in computer science.

DEAD KERNELS PRODUCE CHRISTIANS

Whenever I think of the Nicholls family, this verse comes to mind: “Truly, I tell you,” says Jesus, “unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it pro-duces many seeds.” Dr Don and his family “died” to a lucrative career for Christ’s sake, burying themselves in Christian service. For that reason, I and many others now live.

Their work hasn’t stopped. It’s been my pleasure and honour to have started a number of evangelistic groups in Dallas and Plano - where I now live. I thank God that, since 1989, many accomplished doctors, as well as a number of families from mainland China, have been converted in these groups.

My second oldest sister also accepted Christ when she was studying

in the States. Another sister, my “little sister”, was a nurse for several years. She then ran a business for a time, but then dedicated twenty years to looking after her family and our Dad who had cancer. When he died, she looked after my mother who had Alzheimer’s. My wife and I visited my sister for one last time, praying over her. She was baptised just before she died.

THE NICHOLLS’ WORK DOESN’T STOP

When my sister died, the service was taken by a close friend of mine. He and I had roomed together at college and we set up Christian cell groups on the university campus. The university fellowships grew from 30 to 150 people. From these, 30 have been called with their wives to full-time pastoral work. Soon after the funeral, my friend was called to full-time ministry and, under his care, the church in Taichung of 100 members has grown to a church of 1500. See what I mean when I say that the work of the Nicholls hasn’t stopped? It just keeps growing.

I’m so grateful to Dr Don and his wife and family. It was through them that I came to believe in God.

I’m not grateful for the polio itself, but I am grateful for the fact that it led me to Dr Don who led me to Christ. So I say, “Thank you, Dr and Mrs Nicholls, for having been in my life.”

By Dennis Chang

Dennis Chang (in middle) and his family planting a tree in honour of Dr. Don Nicholls



Building a Better Future in Central Asia

An update on the ministry of GLO partners, P and D of Central Asia, written by P* in March 2017

SECURITY SITUATION

The security situation in this Central Asian country has worsened due to increasing numbers of different militant groups. There are currently about 20 terrorist groups, including Al Qaeda, Taliban and now ISIS. Approximately 35% of the country is controlled by terrorists.

There are very few safe places here, even in its capital city. Recently, nearly 100 members of a persecuted minority group were killed and more than 300 wounded in this city while having a peaceful demon-stration. They were simply protesting that they were being overlooked in terms of government support. In addition to this, the Taliban and ISIS have targeted districts, killing many more of this minority group. More recently, ISIS attacked one of the largest hospitals in the capital city, killing nearly 200 people and injuring another 300.

A significant reason for the Taliban increasing in strength is due to ISIS losing power and resources in Iraq and Syria, causing many of them to escape and move to this country.

P & D’ S WORK

When the security was better, we were able to work among the

smaller tribes near our home village. With the financial aid we received from GLO, we were able to win the hearts of poor villagers by supplying school resources such as workbooks. Also with GLO’s help, we were able to build school rooms and a library; this school is now one of the most successful in this district. It is safer here because it is quite a distance from the Taliban and ISIS areas, and also because the locals actively resist these terrorist groups.

We have realised it is too dangerous to pass through Taliban and ISIS-controlled areas to visit our home district. Accordingly, we have decided to concentrate on helping selected young people from the smaller tribes with their education. Currently, we are supporting 8 to 10 students in the capital city. When we show God’s love to people, they are drawn to Christianity, especially as they compare it to the cruelty of the terrorists. As a result, many are rejecting Islam and wanting to know more about Jesus. Wonderfully, most of the young people we are supporting have become Christians.

D and I really appreciate the prayers and financial support from GLO, as well as the Christians in Australia and New Zealand. This aid enables us to help these young students in the capital city, while demonstrat-ing the love of God. Please remember us in your prayers, P and D.

*Names changed for security purposes.A recently constructed school building

Smiley and friendly, you’d think that Mark and Milly have never had a care in their lives—ever.

DOES LIFE HAVE A PURPOSE?

Mark majored in English at both high school and university. It takes

four years to achieve a bachelor’s degree in Taiwan. “Even though I

was born into a Christian family,” states Mark, “when I reached junior

high I began to think that my life had no purpose. This made me so

desperate that I even harboured thoughts of suicide, but I loved my

Mark (Chinese name: Tseng Yin-Lin) was brought up in a happy Christian family. His father had been a full-time worker in the local Taichung assembly for years. His Mum and Dad were deeply in love with each other and with their two boys. “We had a great childhood,” recalls Mark. “We often played games with each other and were particularly fond of baseball, which we played with our Dad. Life was good.”


Our LivesARE NOT OURS ANYMORE

family too much to go down that path. Then, during my first year at senior high school, my Mum made me attend a conference where an American pastor was speaking. It was there that I discovered God’s love and meaning for my life.” Mark decided to get baptised. “It was then I gave my life to Christ. My life is not mine anymore.”

Ya-Chi Shen (a.k.a. Milly) and Mark met at their church when she was twelve and he was ten. (Yes, Milly’s older than Mark.) It was during that year, Milly remembers, that her family passed through deep waters; her father lost his business. But good came from it. It made them all depend more heavily on God. It also had the effect of her mother and father deepening their love for each other and strengthening their love for God.

Like Mark, Milly also attended university for four years, receiving a bachelor’s degree with a major in children’s education.

ABOUT MARRIAGE AND MINISTRY

Mark and Milly married on the 14th March 2015. Mark speaks Mandarin and English, as does Milly. She also speaks some Hokkien. They are the first couple to be sent out of the country by Brethren Assemblies to study overseas, and have been in Australia since the 2nd February 2017. “It’s much harder to build relationships here,” observes Mark, “because Westerners are very individualistic. We notice it especially when it comes to joining a church.”

They would like to be missionaries, with a special interest in Japan. “But Brethren churches in Taiwan have never sent out a missionary. We are still praying about this. That’s why we’re now here in Australia.”

CHANGES IN TAIWAN

“When people ask me about life in Taiwan,” says Mark, “I tell them that the people are kind and friendly and, because it’s a democratic country, we’re free. It’s also multi-cultural.” Do people want unifica-tion with mainland China? “Well, there’s a diversity of opinion,” chime in Mark and Milly. “Some want to, some don’t. A lot of busi-nesses have moved over into China, though.” There is no persecution of Christians, “but when you say you’re a Christian people say, ‘Oh, so you’re against same-sex marriage.’” A law making such “marriages” legal has just been passed in Taiwan.

Back home, Mark has been involved in youth work and the worship band, while Milly has also been engaged in young people’s work, including Sunday School, and also in the worship band. There are about thirty or forty young people in their assembly.

Brethren work began in Taiwan when Brother Ji-Sheng Lee shifted from China in 1949. He started a Bible study in Taipei which morphed into the first Brethren Church. There are thirteen Brethren assemblies there now. One exciting new development began in their home town of Taichung last year. It’s a GLO-like programme operating under the name Christian Training Institute Taiwan.

Mark and Milly plan to return home after their training at GLO to work full-time in Christian ministry, especially with young people. And then...?

Keep smiling, Mark and Milly. God has good things in store for you and those you serve.

By Brian Goodwin

Mark & Milly’s Church


The Living Fields

COMING TO FAITH

Hi! My name is Sambath. I originally come from a Buddhist family in Cambodia, and I would like to share my story of coming to faith in the Lord Jesus. I had always wanted to learn English, but could not afford to do so. One day in 2003, when I was in Secondary 1, one of my friends invited me to learn English at church. This required me to attend Sunday services, which I did. The pastor there shared the gospel with me, and later that year I gladly received the Lord Jesus as Saviour and was baptised. I then prayed for my family’s salvation. Praise the Lord, my mother and two brothers have become believ-ers. I am still praying for my father’s and two sisters’ salvation.

TEACHING AT SANGKHIM CANAAN SCHOOL

When I finished high school, I continued my studies at university. I really needed a job to help pay my school fees. I prayed hard for a long time, and God generously answered my prayers.

Between 2012 and 2016, I worked as an English teacher at a Christian school named Sangkhim Canaan Christian School. I felt doubly blessed because I was able to be involved in the Lord’s work while teaching children, which I enjoyed. At the school, we prayed that the Lord would help us plant a church that students, parents and other community members could attend.

STUDYING AT GLO AUSTRALIA

Mr Kian Tan, a Singaporean who is chairman of the school, knew about GLO Australia. He encouraged me to come to GLO for training so I could be better prepared to help fulfill the vision of a church on the school grounds.

I asked God to lead me, and took the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) test which I passed in May 2016. In October 2016, I arrived in Sydney where I improved my English skills at CrossTalk for 3 months. I then moved on to Tasmania in February 2017 to join CrossConnect. The discipleship course has helped me grow spiritually, as well as given me opportunities to be involved in ministries in the local churches. These include preaching, sharing my testimony and being involved in children’s and youth programs, all of which I believe are preparing me for my future ministry. The Youth Program, known as Youth 24/7, has particularly impressed me, and I hope to use it back in Cambodia.

In addition to the training programs, I have greatly benefitted from fellowshipping with my brothers and sisters in Christ here in Australia. I have learnt about different cultures, and how to support, pray and live together. It has been a wonderful time of growing.

PLANTING SANGKHIM CHURCH IN CAMBODIA

I am going back to Cambodia at the end of the year to help start a new assembly called Sangkhim Church, where I will help make up part of the leadership team. The building work is currently in progress, and we hope it will be completed by October.

Lord willing, I plan to be involved in English programs for the village children and youth. I am also planning evangelism and discipleship activities which will include visitation, Bible studies, and mobilising the young people to work with us.

The Lord has opened the door for this church to be built. Our vision is to reach as many as we can, both from the school and surrounding community. I am so thankful to Him for calling me to Himself and allowing me to be a part of His bigger plan.

By Sambath

Cambodia is a country known for its tragic past. During the Khmer Rouge regime, which ruled the country from 1975 to 1979, more than a million people were murdered. The sites where the killings took place became known as “The Killing Fields”. The scars from this genocide are still felt today, but God is working sovereignly to draw people to Himself and to build His church. This is the story of a young man from this South-East Asian country, who heard and obeyed God’s calling.

SAMBATH’S STORY

Sambath Sali


Kian & Akiko CrossTalk class of 2016

Sambath with 2017 CrossConnect classmates and lecturer, Chris Thomas.

ZAM THAN LIAN

& ESTHER & FAMILYHostel Ministry, MYANMAR

PRAYER NEWS

A mother of six

being baptised, MYANMAR

CONTACT USPO Box 171, Riverstone NSW 2765

P: 02 9838 1595 | F: 02 9627 3342

E: [email protected]

LAURA NIGHTINGALE

Administration and Finance, Riverstone Office, NSW

PRAYER NEWS

CONTACT USPO Box 171, Riverstone NSW 2765

P: 02 9838 1595 | F: 02 9627 3342E: [email protected]

GLO National Committee – Australia

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Please send to: GLO Ministries, PO Box 171, Riverstone, NSW 2765 Or contact us by Phone: 02 9839 1595 Fax: 02 9627 3342 or Email: [email protected]

GLO Ministries delivers a monthly prayer newsletter to keep you in the loop with up to date prayer needs in the work of GLO around the world.


GLO’S TIMOTHY PROJECT Over the past two decades, GLO Australia has been conducting its own Timothy Project. Since 1995, GLO Australia has granted ministry training scholarships to over 40 national workers from 15 different countries. This year, for example, GLO Australia awarded a total of 11 scholarships, costing more than $100,000, to equip national workers to return to countries such as Cambodia, Indonesia, Mongolia, Nepal and Papua New Guinea to evangelise, disciple and plant churches.

Timothy ProjectGLO SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

the

PAUL’S TIMOTHY PROJECT

Paul’s Timothy Project is summed up in 2 Timothy 2:2, “what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” Through investing considerable time and energy in Timothy, Paul had a vision to impact future generations for the glory of God.

YOUR TIMOTHY PROJECTIn order to continue the Timothy Project, GLO Australia is praying that God would move people’s hearts to contribute to the GLO Scholarship Program. If you are interested in learning how the GLO Timothy Project can become your personal Timothy Project, please fill out the information slip below and return it to GLO Ministries.

PAULTIMOTHY

ACTS 16:1-5, 1 & 2 TIMOTHY

FAITHFUL MEN & OTHERS 2 TIMOTHY 2:2

CHURCH OF EPHESUS 1 TIMOTHY 1:3

SMYRNA, PERGAMUM, THYATIRA, SARDIS,

PHILADELPHIA, LAODICEA REVELATION 2-3

GLO AUSTRALIA SCHOLARSHIPCANDIDATES

FAITHFUL MEN & OTHERS

CAMBODIA, INDONESIA, MONGOLIA, NEPAL, PNG ETC.

I WOULD LIKE TO HELP WITH THE TIMOTHY PROJECT: I would like more information. Single Gift: I would like to give a gift of $____________ to be used for the scholarship fund.

Recurring Gift: I would like to become a GLO Ministries regular scholarship fund partner and donate $____________ via automatic credit card deductions.

monthly quarterly bi-annually yearly other:_______________

Giving Method: Direct Deposit Credit Card Cheque / Money Order GLO Ministries Ltd BSB: 083-088 A/C: 534 845 753 Visa Mastercard AMEX Payable to ‘GLO Ministries Limited’ Reference: Scholarship Program Please advise us of the transfer so the gift is acknowledged.

Card No: __________________________________________ Name on Card: ______________________________________________________

Security No: _________________ Expiry: _______________ Signature: _____________________________________ Date: __________________

Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please send to: GLO Ministries, PO Box 171, Riverstone, NSW 2765 P: 02 9838 1595 F: 02 9627 3342 E: [email protected]

RENOVATIONS AT THE GLO HOUSEWe thank God for Max Maddock and two helpers who worked on the GLO Granny Flat for a week in April. Then, for 2 weeks in June, we had four men from MMM who came and helped in renovating the flat. Steve Jackson from Riverstone assembly has also helped in the renovations. May the Lord bless these men who have given so willingly. It is now near completion with floor coverings, electrical and plumbing, including a water tank, to be purchased and installed. There are also some other finishing touches to be done both inside and outside the flat. Pray for God’s provision for necessary funds to complete this project.

ENCOUNTER MISSION TRIP TO SPAIN

Allan & Kerry Driver led a group of 10 people to Spain to visit Trevor & Manoli Allan from 1 to 16 July. They were involved in a bi-lingual camp, Church activities and helping with renova-tion of the church buildings. Also, helped the church in special outreach activities. The team also participated in a 5 - day Camino pilgrimage to share the gospel.

ENCOUNTER MISSION TRIP TO INDIA

Andrew Cowell with Luke Breaden, Brendan Scott, Jeremiah Doecke, Scott Fisher and

Titus experienced both a very

hot and hectic time in India

during May, but also a won-

derful and rewarding time.

Their time included Missions

Course, Elders seminar, church

meetings and a 4 - day WAC

Adventure camp.

S H O R T T E R M M I S S I O N

MYANMAR VISIT

John & Clarice Quilliam and their grand-daughter visited the GLO Team in Myanmar in mid-July for 10 days. Pray for God’s blessing on the GLO Team.

CROSSCONNECT MISSION EXPOSURE TRIPSOn 19 June, the CrossConnect students left for their Mission Exposure trips – one group, led by Bruce & Helen Buckley, with 4 students went to Cambodia to visit various villages for outreach and to support the believers.

The other group, led by Stuart Thomson, went with AMOS (Australian Mission Outreach Support) to outback Australia to reach out to the Aboriginals. The groups returned early July. Pray that the students will be encouraged and enlightened through this wonderful experience.

FOREVER WITH THE LORD - J VICTOR SUNDERARAJ 1930 – 2017

A Man of Quiet Spiritual Strength. In 1968 God opened the way for Victor SunderaRaj, a well-educated High School teacher with military experience, to take over the GLO / Emmaus Ministry in South India. For the next twenty years he developed the work, expanded the use of the Emmaus Correspondence Courses, trained Christian workers all over India, and taught the Word of God through-out India and neighbouring countries. Victor was a gracious, godly and caring man who served the Lord with passion and zeal. He will long be remembered for his faithfulness, prayerfulness and generosity to all. He is survived by his most supportive wife Daisy and his large family. All of us in the first GLO Team, and many of the Lord’s people in India, thank God for his life and service. Well done Brother Victor!


COMINGS & GLOINGS

‘17 GLO

Contact Us:GLO Ministries, PO Box 171

RIVERSTONE, NSW, 2765P: 02 9838 1595 F: 02 9627 3342

E: [email protected]

Volume 51 Issue 2 Published since 1965Spearhead is published by GLO Ministries to report on training programs and Ministries involvement in Australia and Overseas. GLO Ministries serves within the Christian Brethren Assemblies and sees itself in partnership with Assemblies, missionary service organisations, missionaries, and national workers in overseas countries.

Editorial: Kalpana Bassett Graphics: 1984 Design Studio Printing: Spearhead is printed by Industrial Printing as a ministry to Assemblies. Distribution: 4100 copies are distributed to Christian Brethren Assemblies, and free of charge. Change of Address: Please inform us if you move.

Spearhead Magazine Australia

‘17 GLO‘17 GLO‘17 GLO EXPO DAY9.30 AM 28th OCTOBER 2017

VENUE: RIVERSTONE COMMUNITY CHURCHMORE INFO: 02 9838 1595 or [email protected]

Documents

Spearhead - GLO